About the Initiative
The Arizona Science & Technology Policy Fellowship (STPF) is a tri-university initiative to connect science with policy by creating and fostering a nonpartisan network of science, engineering, and public health leaders with expertise in government and policymaking, who are prepared to develop practical, economical, and science-based solutions to Arizona's greatest challenges.
Our vision is to establish a continuous and sustainable STPF program that provides opportunities for outstanding postgraduate scientists, engineers, and public health professionals to work directly within the Arizona Legislature's research infrastructure. Fellows will support decision makers by serving as in-house experts, providing immediate access to scientific and technical information critical for addressing important issues facing Arizona today.
Learn more in our Program Overview video below:
Fellow Contributions
Fellows will respond to direct requests for information from members, committees, or caucuses. Fellows will carry out independent research of the current literature and contact relevant experts, and summarize findings by:
- Providing short, confidential Science Notes for the requestee(s)
- Providing briefings or testimony in committee hearings
- Being available for informational events with legislators
- Holding individual meetings with members and their staff(s)
Examples of Science Notes compiled by similar, existing programs in other states:
Missouri Science and Technology Policy Initiative
West Virginia Bridge Initiative for Science and Technology Policy, Leadership, and Communications
Fellows will receive unique career growth experiences in public service and the translation of science into policy, as well as explicit training in government operations and science policy and diplomacy. Arizona's citizens will benefit from policies designed with greater consideration for science-informed outcomes across sectors, including water management, industry development, artificial intelligence, heat mitigation, and much more.
Honest Brokers
Fellows will provide nonpartisan current science and technology information solely upon the request of legislators. Fellows will not advocate, promote, or propose any specific legislation or idea for legislation.
Program Process
Currently in its conceptual phase, the Arizona STPF program aims to launch in fall of 2024. The planning team is working toward three main objectives:
- Securing support among Arizona legislators and solidifying plans to integrate Fellows with existing research staff infrastructure.
- Developing the mechanisms by which STP Fellows may be recruited, selected, and trained for service.
- Identifying and retaining funding sources to provide longterm support of a continuous and sustainable STPF program.
The Arizona STPF planning team is supported by the National Conference of State Legislatures with funding generously provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. The program is administered and executed by the University of Arizona, leveraging the university's experience in science knowledge transfer and science policy, with support of an Advisory Committee comprising members from Arizona's three land-grant universities, industries, and non-governmental organizations.
Please connect with our team to learn more, give feedback, and support the project: azscipol@arizona.edu
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